Saugus Police are recommending the town’s public schools adopt the ALICE protocol for threats like an intruder or active shooter.

By Jessica Davis

March 13, 2019

Saugus Police Chief Ronald Giorgetti is recommending that public schools train staff and students in the Alert, Lockdown, Inform, Counter and Evacuate (ALICE) method of responding to an intruder or active shooter. His recommendation follows the Massachusetts Task Force Report on School Safety and Security’s statement that the lockdown method is no longer a standalone secure-in-place stategy.

Saugus Police were trained in the ALICE method last year, but the protocol can’t be implemented on campuses until it’s adopted by the School Committee.

“With this cutting-edge safety and security program, we are providing educators, staff, children, and residents with resources that could potentially save their life in an emergency situation,” Giorgetti said.

The traditional lockdown technique originated during the Cold War as a response to nuclear threats. However, government agencies have found that campuses need to change their lockdown methods. According to Town Manager Scott Crabtree, they recommend ALICE.

ALICE is an emergency response program that provides strategies to help students and staff better respond to an active threat on campuses.

Training for the ALICE method takes place online and via hands-on drills. Training modules are available to all staff and will be tailored based on students’ ages and needs.

Giorgetti will present information about ALICE to the School Committee on Thursday, and the committee will be tasked with adopting the program before it can be implemented.

“The safety of our children is the primary concern for the School Committee,” chairwoman Jeannie Meredith said. “I am thankful that the police and town have brought in this nationally recognized response system that will prioritize the safety of the kids, staff, and school, and better prepare ourselves for this changing environment.”